A FORMER England footballer hopes to curb youth unemployment by encouraging teens to run his south Bucks-based motor racing team headed for Le Mans.

England and Watford striker Luther Blissett has put his football boots to the back of the cupboard and hung up his shirt to lead a motor racing team run entirely by teens.

Team48, based in Chalfont St Giles, offers an opportunity for young motorsport enthusiasts who struggle to settle in at school or left without qualifications, to work in a motor racing team, learn a trade and important life skills needed to get a job.

Mr Blissett, who is moving to Chalfont St Giles next week, said: “Engaging kids in the education system doesn’t always suit them so we try and find other ways of doing it and get them learning.

“The idea behind Team48 is for youngsters to get involved, whether that be mechanics, graphic design, marketing, whatever they’re interested in, run all aspects of the team from fixing the car to PR and learn important skills and experience along the way, not just fixing a car but responsibility, time management, all sorts of skills that they can transfer into any sort of business.

“It’s all about education, mentoring and creating opportunities for young people.”

On Tuesday evening, Chalfont Art and Framing owner, Ian Morris hosted a networking event for local businesses and authorities to learn more about and get involved with the team.

Councillors, emergency service representives and business owners all attended the event in Little Chalfont, which included a prize draw.

Chiltern District Councillor Mimi Harker, who supports Mr Blissett’s project, attended the evening.

She said: “I think these sorts of schemes, in my experience, are very very successful and work really well for young people because it teaches them skills, it teaches them responsibility, it gives them something to do, but it also teaches them something they can actually earn a living from so it’s a win-win situation for everybody.”

Mr Blissett wants Team48 to race in the legendary Le Mans 24 hour race in France so is keen for local businesses to get involved with the project.

He said: “Involvement doesn’t necessarily mean they have to sponsor us, which would be great, but people can take workshops, give the kids work experience, talk to the kids about how they got to where they are with their business and the steps you have to take to get there, if they want to supply tools, whatever anybody is able to give, that will help the project move forward.”

For more information go to www.team48.co.uk